Interfaces on Cisco [device type] are administratively down by default.

When considering the default state of interfaces on Cisco devices, routers are indeed administratively down by default. This state means that the interface is not operational until an administrator manually enables it. This design choice is rooted in the general configuration practices for routers, where specific interfaces need to be activated based on network requirements.

In contrast, switches typically have their interfaces in an operational state (up) by default, allowing for immediate connectivity and data transmission through their ports upon initial setup. Firewalls and access points also follow specific operational configurations that usually do not default to being administratively down.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for network management since router interfaces may require additional steps for configuration before they can be utilized in a network environment. Knowing that router interfaces are down by default highlights the need for network professionals to implement appropriate startup commands to bring these interfaces up and running based on the intended network design.